What's in a Handshake?

The handshake is an ancient tradition that conveys trust, respect and agreement. It varies in tradition around the world but is believed to have evolved as a gesture of peace demonstrating that you are holding no weapons. In Australia today business is nearly always sealed with a firm handshake. So what makes the perfect handshake?

Use your right hand

Make sure you have a dry palm. A good tip is to place your palm on your sleeve if you are waiting to greet someone.

Make eye contact and smile.

A firm grip and open your fingers slightly.

A couple of shakes, and don’t go on for more than a few seconds.

A little research reveals many thoughts on the perfect handshake, and one of my favourites is Geoffrey Beattie who, when working with the University of Manchester, created a mathematical formula for the perfect handshake expressed through 12 variables.